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Local Safe Toy Zone!

Savvy Santa Cruz parents are concerned about safe toys, as evidenced by the questions Kaleidoscope staff has been receiving. Since the recent “lead/toy” scare Kaleidoscope has verified the safety of their already carefully selected toys. Working with their manufacturers, reputable and rather small in the world of toy companies, owner Sheryl Guidera and her staff have reviewed the manufacturing and testing standards of every toy in her store.

When you enter Kaleidoscope, you are in a Safe Toy Zone. You can be certain that if Kaleidoscope carries a toy that says “Made in China” that it is a safe toy. That’s right! Safe! How can Kaleidoscope be so sure?! “Since the first scare, I’ve spoken with every manufacturer we buy from and compiled a huge file noting what each one has done to assure us of safety,” said Sheryl, “and I’m glad to share that information with customers.” Sheryl also has available a list of toys made in the USA.

Sheryl explained that there are two US organizations and one European organization that test/certify for toy safety. The manufacturers she buys from meet the standards of ASTM, the American Society for Testing Materials, or CPSC, Consumer Product Safety Commission., and the manufacturers that sell toys in Europe must also meet the stricter standards of EN-71. Many manufacturers are doing their own in-house testing.

A great site for all your questions about toy safety is ToyInfo.org. They have a helpful FAQ/Toy Safety Facts section.

Emily in Watsonville won the set of Brio Blocks! Emily told us she uses the parent planner and events calendar every week to coordinate events with her sister in Santa Cruz. She is certain that Santa looks forward to oreo cookies and milk at her house.

Save the Date!

Toy Train Show Opens at MAH December 18

Teen Volunteers Wanted to Help Run the Trains. Call Eric 423-8072

Tyrolean Inn Restaurant

Fine Dining

for the Family

Buffet Thursday Evening

9600 Hwy 9, Ben Lomond

336-5188

Every toy passes our strict safety standards.

828 Bay Ave off Hwy 1, Capitola

For the Teens!

The Core Teen Group

Fun Activities for Teens

Guided by

Caring Energetic Leaders

Check out their website and explore the changes The Core strives to make in young people's lives everyday. The Core believes that the youth of this world are its most valuable possession. Teens in our program have the opportunity to experience and create a life that is full of possibilities. For information on how to join or start a group like this,

email Kim@KimClary.com

Happy Hanukkah!

Rabbi Yochanon, on this week's evening broadcast, explained the intent behind 8 days of giving during Hanukkah. It's not just that giving expands our own spirit; it's about the art of giving a gift that the recipient can then also share/give.

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